Families looking for engaging ways to spend Presidents Day can choose from three hands-on, kid-friendly events taking place across Lake Metroparks on Feb. 16. With school out for the holiday, the parks will offer opportunities to explore wildlife, geology and farm life through interactive experience s designed especially for young learners, according to a news release. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Penitentiary Glen Reservation, 8668 Kirtland-Chardon Road in Kirtland, “Fun Day: Pocket Monsters” will explore the real-world animals behind some of gaming’s most recognizable “pocket” creatures. Through interactive games, hands-on activities and live animal chats, participants will explore the wildlife and natural adaptations that inspired these imaginative creatures and their signature traits, from electric shocks to fiery defenses and other unusual abilities. The event is free and no registration is required. Also from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., “Rock Around the Park Open House” will take place at the Environmental Learning Center at Jordan Creek Park, 7250 Alexander Road in Painesville. This free event focuses on geology and the fascinating variety of rocks found in Ohio and beyond. Families can explore specimens, participate in educational activities and create crafts while learning how rocks form and shape the landscape, the release stated. No registration is required. At Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road in Kirtland, “Farmer Monday” will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is included with regular Farmpark admission. Designed for little farmers and their families, the day will feature hands-on farm experiences, demonstrations, a pet plant activity, crafts and a s’mores and cocoa bar. Attendees can also enjoy the large indoor playground in the Exhibit Hall, presented by Playground World. For more information, visit goto.lakemetroparks.com/events. ...read more read less